Cold and flu symptoms and causes
Do you have symptoms of a cold? Or are those signs of the flu? What distinguishes the flu from a common cold?
The viruses that cause the flu and the common cold are distinct. While the flu can be brought on by either the influenza A or influenza B viruses, colds are typically brought on by a variety of viruses. While there may be some similarities between the symptoms of the flu and the ordinary cold, there are some key differences.
Common cold
In general, a cold is less severe than the flu. A headache or runny nose are two symptoms that are frequently confined to the head and nose.
Influenza
Typically more severe, flu symptoms may be comparable. You can have a fever, excruciating weariness, a sore throat, and body aches.
COVID-19
COVID-19 symptoms resemble those of the common cold or flu, making it even more crucial to consult a doctor and get checked out.
Urgent Care for cold and flu symptoms
Feverish, achy, coughing, and sneezing? You most certainly have upper respiratory infection symptoms, but do you also have the flu, the common cold, or COVID-19? We can assist you in receiving the appropriate diagnosis and care you require when you visit one of our NeuMed clinics. Simply stroll in, reserve your seat online, or arrange a virtual visit to receive the same high-quality care from home that you would get at any of our conveniently located clinics.
Every day of the year from 8am to 8pm, we are here for you.
What is the flu?
Influenza, more frequently referred to as the flu, is a respiratory condition that mostly affects the upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs on occasion. While it typically only results in a mild to moderate disease, in a few number of cases, it can result in a fatal illness.
Flu symptoms can include:
- Body aches
- Chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
Children's Cold and Flu
Children are more likely than adults to experience respiratory illnesses, especially during the cold and flu season. Due to the social environment and frequent interaction between children at school or daycare, many of them get illnesses there.
Even though the majority of children recover quickly, it's still vital for parents to be aware of the signs and possible treatments for children's respiratory diseases so they can get better more quickly.
Children's Cold and Flu Symptoms
Children's cold and flu symptoms often resemble those experienced by adults. Children with respiratory diseases typically experience vomiting and diarrhea more frequently than adults do.
Children can occasionally develop severe flu symptoms and may require additional care. If your child exhibits one or more of the following signs, you might need to transport them to the emergency room:
- A complete lack of vigor or lethargy.
- Fever that has been exceeding 102° F for more than 3 days and has not subsided despite treatment.
- 105° F or higher fever at any time
- The child refuses to drink any drinks or doesn't urinate for more than eight hours.
- Respiratory problems or shortness of breath.
- The skin around the ribcage gets sucked in while inhaling, called retractions.
Visit one of our local NeuMed clinics or book a telehealth visit with one of our providers if the symptoms are not severe but you are still worried.
Cold and Flu treatment
Most colds and flu are treated at home with over-the-counter drugs, pain relievers, antihistamines, or decongestants. There are a few other things you can do to help your body fight the illness. Here are some examples:
- Keeping hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and to help relieve congestion. Warm liquids can also be calming.
- Resting. While you sleep, your body begins to fight the virus. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night, with naps if possible.
- Using a humidifier. Increasing the humidity in the air can assist to relieve congestion.
- Honey. A spoonful of honey can be used to relieve a cough and sore throat.
While everyone is different, colds often deteriorate within the first 4 to 5 days. Symptoms typically begin to improve after that, with symptoms generally disappearing by day 7 to 10. If you are still suffering after 10 days, book a visit at NeuMed and let's get you checked out.
Cold and Flu Medicine That Can Help
Even though there isn't a single best cold or flu medicine for people, most over-the-counter medicines can help relieve or lessen symptoms for a short time, but they won't help you get better faster.
During cold and flu season, you might want to have these medicines on hand:
Antihistamines: Cetirizine, Diphenhydramine, Fexofenadine, Loratadine
Cough suppressants: Dextromethorphan
Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine
Pain relievers/fever reducers: Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen.
Other conditions NeuMed can treat related to Cold and Flu
At NeuMed Modern Urgent Care + IV Therapy, we can help you feel better, faster. We treat much more than just colds and the flu - we can also help you with:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Laryngitis
- Mono
- Sinus infections
- Strep throat
If your symptoms are getting worse or are unsure about your symptoms, we can help at NeuMed Modern Urgent Care. Just stop by one of our convenient locations or book a visit online.
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs that you might have the flu?
When you first get sick with the flu, you may feel very tired and have serious body aches that are not caused by recent exercise. Some people's first sign of being sick is a scratchy or sore throat.
